17th Annual Doorway to the Future
On Thursday, May 11, 2023, friends and supporters of Mercy Education Project (MEP) gathered at Eastern Market’s Shed 5 for the 17th annual Doorway to the Future Gala. The Doorway Gala, as it is often called, is a time to come together, celebrate the power of education, and dream big. More than 250 guests enjoyed food, drinks, games, a program and a paddle raise to end the evening, with proceeds totaling $47,655 from the paddle raise alone.
MEP is very grateful to the 21 event sponsors who made the event possible, including DTE Energy Foundation, this year’s Red Door Event Sponsor. The Doorway to the Future Gala is known for its inventive raffle packages featuring local donations. This year, in addition to the raffles, even more fun was had with interactive “MEP-themed” games such as a pencil and eraser toss. The MC and auctioneer for the evening was ML Elrick, a community leader on Detroit’s Eastside.
Executive Director Mark Mals spoke about MEP’s roots as the evening kicked off with a video message explaining the meaning of the red door. Catherine McAuley in Dublin, Ireland began with a mission to help underserved women, and the Detroit Sisters of Mercy carried on her legacy 31 years ago when they began Mercy Education Project. Today — MEP’s freshly painted red door opens up a whole new future of possibilities for women and girls in southwest Detroit and beyond.
This year, the Spirit of Mercy Award – which historically is given by MEP to a supporter who shows incredible dedication and volunteerism – was presented to two tutors who between them have served over 20 years with MEP. Jane Kersjes and Christine Allen were honored on stage and thanked for their many years educating and supporting MEP students.
With the funds raised at the 17th annual Doorway to the Future Gala, MEP will be able to continue offering excellent educational services to the women and girls who call MEP home. $201,450 was raised that will help expand the reach of MEP, opening more doors for women and girls in the Detroit area.
Join us next year in May 2024 for the 18th annual Doorway to the Future Gala! Keep an eye on our website and social channels for ways to get involved and support.
2023 Doorway to the Future Sponsors:
Red Door Event Sponsor: DTE Energy Foundation
Graduate Sponsors: Trinity Health and Corewell Health
Leader Sponsors: Magna, and Thomas and Carol Cracchiolo Foundation
Educator Sponsors: Sisters of Mercy, IBEW Local Union 58, Henry Ford Health, Kitch
Tutor Sponsors: MGM Grand Detroit, Ruby and Associates, Wolverine Packing Co.
Partner Sponsors: Ideal Group, Christian Financial Credit Union, AIMS, Hollywood Casino, Burns & McDonnell, Nealco Investments, Louis and Michelle Fiereas, Chavez/Lacruz Family, David Parr
Enjoy the photos from our event from May 11, 2023